Category: NBA

MIAMI — Observations and other notes of interest from Monday night’s 102-88 NBA playoff loss to the Boston Celtics: – Yes, this is about the Celtics. – Whose depth of talent is such that even Derrick White can be a leading man. – Whose depth of talent is such that they can survive a calf injury to Kristaps Porzingis. – And, yes, this also is about the Heat’s shorthanded roster, as Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier continue to look on from the bench in street clothes. – But it also is about the Heat reducing their odds because of their approach to the regular season. – With one more win, the...

BOSTON — Observations and other notes of interest from Monday night’s 111-101 NBA playoff victory over the Boston Celtics: – No, it’s not as simple as Erik Spoelstra assembling his players at Tuesday’s practice and Wednesday morning’s shootaround at TD Garden and telling them to make 3-pointers. – (Typically coaches do not demand, “Do not miss!”) – But in this series, to be competitive while shorthanded, the Heat need to junk it up. – Typically, that has the Heat trying to play in the mud, the type of slow-paced defensive grind that makes you wonder what else is on. – This time, they...

MIAMI — Observations and other notes of interest from Friday night’s 112-91 NBA play-in victory over the Chicago Bulls: – No, not necessarily among Friday night’s biggest storylines on a night the Heat found their way to victory in the absences of Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier. – Certainly not bigger than Tyler Herro’s effort. – But perhaps among the most significant. – Because to compete against the Celtics, it likely will have to come over the top from the Heat. – As in the shooting of Duncan Robinson. – While not necessarily up to full speed, merely having Robinson on the court at least...

PHILADELPHIA – Observations and other notes of interest from Wednesday night’s 105-104 NBA play-in loss to the Philadelphia 76ers: – The zone defense was energizing and effective. – The effort on that end of the floor was undeniable. – Could not have been much better. – But you also have to score. – Which made this much like the Heat’s season. – Heart and hustle will get you to places such as the play-in. – Points will put you over the top. – This is why the Heat got Terry Rozier. – And this is why the Heat badly missed Rozier in this one. – Tyler Herro couldn’t make a shot until late. –...